While there are so many answers to that question, the most common is that the problems you (or your child) are experiencing cause significant impairment in functioning. Thus, while we all feel sad and angry and worried as a regular part of life, the experience of these feelings is overwhelming, and therefore results in a struggle. Oftentimes, these struggles do not only affect the individual, but their family life, social relationships, and school functioning as well. When a family is in transition, has experienced a traumatic event, or is in a state of ongoing stress, therapy is a source of comfort, support, and resources.

It is time to seek consultation with a professional when you see certain patterns emerge; whether it is loss of interest in activities that were previously a favorite; emotional overreaction or loss of control; underachievement in school; withdrawal; poor decision-making; changes in sleep or appetite; negative self-image and struggles with identity – all of these are reasons why people come to therapy.